Clarkson University Collaborates with Semiconductor Executives for New Spring Course

Introduction to Semiconductors Seminar at Clarkson University to Feature Top Industry Experts

Clarkson University is widely recognized for its leadership in technological education, research, and innovation. The university impacts more than 7,800 students annually through its STEM-focused undergraduate and graduate programs, industry-relevant credentials, and K-12 STEM initiatives. Clarkson alumni, known for their high salaries, frequently occupy leadership roles, with one in five holding positions in the C-suite. The university has announced a new collaboration with executives from the semiconductor industry to offer a one-credit seminar course, Introduction to Semiconductors, beginning in the Spring 2025 semester. This course will provide a comprehensive overview of the semiconductor sector, featuring weekly guest speakers who will discuss key topics such as artificial intelligence (AI), hyperscalers, advanced manufacturing, and the geopolitical factors shaping the industry.

Additionally,  the seminar will also examine the critical role semiconductors play across various industries, including computing, consumer electronics, automotive, and aerospace, providing students with valuable insights into the growing importance of semiconductors in today's technology-driven world. Offered through Clarkson University’s School of Engineering, the course will be available to graduate students and upper-class undergraduates, including those from non-engineering disciplines. Furthermore, Fram Akiki ‘86, President of Joun Technologies, will teach the course, adding more than 35 years of experience in the semiconductor industry and holding leadership roles at IBM, Qualcomm, and Siemens.

Mark Papermaster, Chief Technology Officer and Executive Vice President of AMD, emphasized the growing significance of semiconductor technology, noting that innovation is central to the industry's progress. He also highlighted the crucial role of semiconductor devices in addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges. As a result, this initiative will provide valuable insights for the next generation of engineers, helping them navigate the evolving semiconductor industry.

The seminar will feature a distinguished lineup of guest speakers, including Mark Papermaster (AMD), Rene Haas (Arm), Sanjay Mehta (Teradyne), and Sumit Sadana (Micron). Other speakers include Michael Campbell (Qualcomm), Drew DeLong (Kearney), Mark Dougherty (Tokyo Electron), Nakul Duggal (Qualcomm), Christine Dunbar (IQE), Ken McAvey (GlobalFoundries), Christina Montgomery (IBM), and Raja Tabet (Synopsys). These distinguished experts will share their insights on key topics shaping the semiconductor industry, providing students with valuable knowledge and perspectives.

In conclusion, Clarkson University's Introduction to Semiconductors seminar, starting in Spring 2025, will provide students with valuable industry insights. It will feature expert speakers and guidance from experienced professionals in the semiconductor field.

Editor's Note:

The Introduction to Semiconductors seminar at Clarkson University is a valuable addition to the academics as semiconductors play a crucial role in shaping modern technology, this course will provide students with essential knowledge about the industry’s impact on fields like AI, automotive, and aerospace. With expert guest speakers and insights from industry leaders, this course will provide a comprehensive introduction to the various industries that use semiconductors.

Skoobuzz emphasizes the importance of this course, as students will gain valuable insights into current industry trends and acquire essential skills, which is crucial for them to adapt to rapidly changing industry requirements.